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Statement by MP Chris Hayes about Pal Buddhist School in Federal Parliament

Statement by Chris Hayes MP, Federal Member for Fowler and Chief Opposition Whip at the Parliament of Australia in Canberra on 29 May 2014.

“Today I rise to talk about PAL School, the first Buddhist high school in the country. I am honoured to have visited this school, which has been established in Canley Vale in my electorate of Fowler.

During my visit, I learnt that the academic and life skills education of this school follow the teachings of Buddha, emphasising compassion, philosophy and kindness. The school encourages a positive outlook based on peace, harmony and continual learning.

I am also aware of the students’ high degree of involvement in charitable works and volunteer work throughout our community. Innovatively, this school has also tried to create a paperless school environment, saving natural resources and engaging with students to adopt quicker new technologies to access the most up-to-date information available to them.

I would like to acknowledge the hard work of the principal, Panha Pal, and the board of directors, Helen Lam, Huy Vu, Son Long Ha and Renata Ratzer. I would also like to thank the teachers of the school, who do invaluable work, and the various volunteers, particularly those in the P&C, people such as Phuong Dao, Sophie Hong, Muoi Huynh, Nghia Ho and Thao Kieu.

Only last weekend, the school opened a temple on the school grounds, which will be available for all in the community during weekends. I look forward to working very closely with the PAL Buddhist School over years to come.”